PhotoArt 2006 sets entry deadline Feb. 18-24

Attention all photographers. It's that time of year to start thinking about the annual PhotoArt juried photo contest organized by the Halton Hills Camera Club. Marcia Lowin, club president encourages photographers to gather up their images for submission. "PhotoArt has grown considerably from its humble beginnings over 20 years ago, as this prestigious competition continues to promote photography as an art-form and highlights the considerable wealth of talent within our community," she said. PhotoArt 2006 is open to residents of Halton Hills and includes categories for children and adults. The children's age category is: 8 years and under, or 9 to 14 years. Children can enter up to three 4"x6" colour prints in each category of: People, Creatures and Critters, or Any Other Subject. Adults can enter images in Colour and Black and White. Each of these has the following categories: · People, Creatures and Critters; · Foliage and Flowers; · Objects and Abstracts; · Scenery and Architecture; · Creative Digital New to PhotoArt 2006 is the Creative Digital category. Creative Digital is an original image produced by the photographer that is manipulated through the editing of digital imaging software (or other software) using special effects, filters, and montages (but not limited to these) to design a creative original. The challenge is out for Halton Hills photographers to strut their stuff and show their artistic creativity in this new category. All adult images must be mounted on white foam core with a 2 inch border. Images can be 5"X7" to a maximum of 16"X20". Alan McCord, accredited provincial photography judge stresses the importance of reviewing the rules to assist in your image preparation. "It is important to pay attention to the rules and keep your presentation tidy. Is the image square on the backing? Is it mounted well with no bends or bulges?" McCord offers this final piece of advice to all PhotoArt 2006 entrants, "If you take the time to prepare an image for presentation it generally will be received more positively because it shows that you care about your photo." You can pick up PhotoArt 2006 brochures with detailed rules and entry forms at Pictures and Presents, Halton Camera Exchange, Halton Hills libraries and the Halton Hills Civic Centre. Viewing of winning and selected images takes place in downtown Georgetown's historical gallery at the Halton Hills Library and Cultural Centre, Thursday, March 2 until Sunday, March 26. The Awards Night will be on Thursday, March 2 at 7 p.m. (presentation at 8 p.m.). "Have fun and don't worry too much about winning," said McCord. "Getting up on display in the Halton Hills Cultural Centre is a worthy reward and if not this year, keep at it for next year's PhotoArt competition." For more information contact: Halton Hills Camera Club president: Marcia Lowin, 905-702-0048.